With former members of both Shining and Livsnekad present, Acacia’s 2013 release on the world was relatively anticipated on in some black metal circles-both intrigue and interest surrounds this album, and the sounding is both highly intriguing and interesting as well.

Tills döden skiljer oss åt is a self-produced affair, released on Art of Propaganda Records on the first day of the summer month of June. Just tracks long, but by no means short, the album is a deep layered piece of art, which is hard to categorise and define, with it’s many emotions and vibes. So, let’s pick apart these layers and see what’s really on offer…

There are some valid complaints to be had, that’s for sure. However, many reviewers have quickly hailed and praised this album within just a couple of weeks of its release. I am glad I had a good month or two to really and digest this record in all depth, which has revealed both the pros and cons of the album in full illumination. 4 contributing vocalist certainly adds more to listen out for, but when listening out for them, you might struggle to notice any more than two or three voices in the mix, because there isn’t a great deal of variation present. I can’t say I think the record deserves the praise it has so far received, and I fell that scores of 9/10 are highly inconsistent with the product. This strange mixture pot of figures mildly prominent in the metal scene seriously lacks any identity, or anything for the listener to hook on to, whilst offering no dreamy or trippy qualities either. This is possible one of the hardest albums to review, because its structure is incoherent yet consistent, and its quality is constantly yo-yoing in each track. Countless listens of Tills döden skiljer oss åt show that it does offer a good experience of melancholic soundscapes, best felt when relaxed and in a near sleep state, clear doom and black metal influences will quickly wake you up, but then another drop in the music will quickly make you lose interest. Acacia do score points with the use of their native tongue, helping with art based side of the sounds they create, but a quick translation of the title reveals its English meaning to be Till Death Do Us Part, but don’t worry, I don’t think Alf Garnett is featured here.

Despite their many influences and textures, the band never offers a good display of any genre they stem from, and will often leave you lost, and a bit bored. Some will recommend listening in a variety of environments, and I’ve tried them all, from a busy metro bus ride to being alone in the dark, and sadly, I fell asleep on both occasions. Unless you want everything tied into one in a flimsy package with a big “featuring members from…” sticker on the front, give this one a miss.